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The video games industry has a net worth of $80 billion. It’s one of the biggest forms of entertainment. Developers want to make their games more accessible to players. Localization is a key component in the development process.

How Popular are Video Games?

It is estimated that the video gaming industry will be worth $100 billion dollars in 2017. Mobile gaming is a major driving force.

In the US, 97% of teenagers play video games. Over 80% of adults 18 to 29 also play video games. Even adults ages 30 to 49 are gamers. 91% of children ages 2-17 play video games.

The demographic of people playing video games is strong and varied. Nearly everyone has or is playing video games.

Video Game Localization

Developers actively try to reach as many players as possible. A key trend has been localization. Localization offers the same interface, feeling and game experience in the player’s native language.

Video game translation occurs after the game has been finished. A localized version is released after the original.

The competitiveness of the video games made the simultaneous release of original and translated versions important. Players from all parts of the world want to play the video game at the same time.

Japanese games are some of the most popular video games. Many games from Japan are translated for English-speaking players.

Inefficient Video Game Translation

Video game translations are often challenging. Cultural differences between languages should be considered. Developers who do not prioritize translations do not connect with the players.

The most famous example is from a 1991 game called Zero Wing. It is a Japanese game translated to English. The nonsensical Japanese translation became an internet phenomenon.

Fortunately, these blunders do not happen anymore. Developers have learned to seek out professional translations services. They are able to efficiently translate video game interface and story clips properly.

A professionally translated video games is best. Players no longer find bad translations funny. They are annoying to the audience. It can also impede the video game from selling.